If you have had a major injury or medical event you might be wondering if you qualify for a disabled parking permit in the Old Line State. Maybe you have a chronic condition affecting your eyesight, balance, breathing, or walking ability. Or maybe you are pregnant and experiencing mobility issues, or have been ordered bed rest by your OBGYN.
If any of those sounds like you, you might be entitled to a disabled parking permit under Maryland guidelines. This permit, either temporary or permanent, can be used as a driver or as a passenger to ensure your safety. Check with your Maryland provider to see if a disabled parking permit could help you.
Does My Injury Entitle Me to Disabled Parking in Maryland?
Maryland state law offers disabled parking to individuals who are experiencing a medical condition, injury or complication that limits their mobility for at least three weeks. If you are injured, and your healing time is expected to take more than three weeks, your provider can sign a certificate of temporary eligibility for you.
Broken bones, walking pneumonia, surgery, pulled muscles, sprains, ulcers, all of these conditions could qualify. The decision is up to your provider and is based on your needs. If you feel you are having a hard time walking quickly, safely, or for long distances because of your pain level, balance, respiratory difficulty or eyesight impairment, you could be eligible.
There is no comprehensive list of conditions. Talk to your provider about your needs. If you feel as though you would benefit by using the disabled parking programs in your community, don’t hesitate to check with your Maryland provider.
Are Pregnant Women Eligible for Maryland Disabled Parking Permits?
Every pregnancy is different. Some women remain mobile and pain-free all nine months, with little to no nausea. Some women choose to spend their entire pregnancy lounging gracefully at home, with butterflies landing on their eyelids while they nap in the sunshine.
Most pregnancies are nothing like that. If you are a working woman or a dedicated homemaker, staying home for almost a year is simply not an option. And if you are one of the millions of women who experiences back pain, limited mobility, frequent nausea, or one of many other trying symptoms that come along with the miracle of life, don’t worry. Maryland has your back.
In the great state of Maryland, many pregnant women or new mothers who are experiencing mobility issues related to their bundles of joy are eligible for disabled parking permits. This comes as a lifesaver for many women and is another great perk of living in Maryland. Check with your OBGYN about getting a medical certificate for a temporary disabled parking permit.
Does My Chronic Condition Qualify for Disabled Parking in Maryland?
Maryland guidelines for disabled parking are based on impairment in these major categories:
- Ambulation (walking)
- Vision
- Balance
- Respiration (breathing)
- Pain level
There is no official list of conditions that make one eligible for Maryland disabled parking permits. That decision is made by your provider based on your needs and comfort. Chances are, if you feel that you need a handicap spot, you are eligible. Some examples of common reasons are…
- Amputation or paralysis of one or more limbs
- Seizures, dizziness, or muscle spasms
- Partial or total blindness, vision impairment that cannot be corrected by lenses
- Use of or reliance on ambulation devices such as a walker, wheelchair, brace or cane
- Trouble breathing with exertion, COPD, or reliance on oxygen tanks
- Stroke, heart attack, pacemaker, or other major cardiac condition
- Pain or difficulty walking more than 200 feet
If one or more of those describes you, or you believe that you are disabled physically, talk to a Maryland provider about your eligibility for disabled parking.
Who Can Verify My Disability?
Because of new, more inclusive licensing laws in the state of Maryland, getting your disabled parking permit is easier than ever. If you have a chronic condition, the provider who you see to manage that condition is likely able to sign your certificate for you.
For example, if you have glaucoma or cataracts, your optometrist can help you. If you experience chronic back pain, ask your chiropractor. If you have arthritis in your feet and legs, your podiatrist can help you.
If you aren’t seeing a specialist, don’t worry. Your general practitioner, physician’s assistant or nurse practitioner can help you.
Who Can Use My Placard?
You and only you may use your disabled parking placard or license plate. Lending out your placard is not only illegal but can result in your disabled parking permit being revoked.
However, you CAN use your placard as a passenger. If you are no longer driving, or are being given a ride by a family member, they can use your placard in your car or their car, so long as you are with them. Remember, your disabled parking permit is not a toy, it is given to people who have a legitimate need and are in pain.
That is why you are allowed to use it as a passenger. That way, wherever you go, you are given the best possible treatment to meet your needs.
Maryland Disabled Parking
Let’s review Maryland state disabled parking permits. If you are temporarily impaired by an injury, are pregnant, or have a chronic condition, you may be eligible for a disabled parking permit in the state of Maryland. Most medical providers you see to manage your condition or for regular check-ups can sign your certificate for you.
The Maryland Motor Vehicle Department (MMVD) accepts certificates for temporary disabled parking permits which last six months or permanent permits which must be renewed every five years. Disabled parking hangtags (placards) are free, and license plates cost $20.
Your placard can be used in your car, or a family members car if you are driving or are a passenger at the time of use. Failure to display the placard while parking could result in a fine.
If you experience difficulty walking for any reason, you should consider getting yourself a disabled parking permit. Ask your Maryland provider today.